I've not heard Enya's version until very recently, and I haven't heard Moya's since January - but I think I prefer Moya's I always prefer her voice over Enya's. I must say though, Enya's is very impressive

Music and friendship - the answer to life's problems.

I heard Your voice
Whisper to the wild water
Step By Step
Slowly I turn - Máire Brennan

Ooh difficult one. I love them both, but I voted for Moya's version because her version is warmer (as has been said before) and because Aisling and Paul also sing on this version. I think that this makes Moya's voice even warmer at the end of the song.

My favourite is also Moya's even though I heard Enya's version first. Moya makes it sound like Christmas should be!

Enya's version is more fit for a church recital, or for christmas evening by yourself It's a very personal piece, where Moya's is truly a family piece.
In that sense I guess Enya's comes closest to the original intent.

Moya's is much more evocative - the 'oohs' and 'aahs' etween verses send such chills down my spine. But I think her version could have had more at the beginning and end - time to get into the mood and time to dwell upon the words just sung. Instead it starts and ends immediately. But the delicate harp sounds and soft backing are just perfect for this song!

Enya's version is much more focused on the music in my opinion. Had I not been very familiar with her unique harmonies this version would have blown me away, but to me her sound doesn't differ a lot to her other songs. Hence there is no particular Christmas feel. However the production is rich and clear and her music suits any Christmas song lol.

Verdict: I'm going with Moya for the authenticity and true Christmas feel. Both versions have something I love about them but also could have something added ... perhaps if Moya and Enya did a Christmas duet?

Personally i think Enya's sounds better overall, even though i prefer Moya's vocals on this track. Also if you have Only time: The Collection you can watch Enya sing this in a video from disc 4 in the boxset

(If this topic came up on Enya's forum, i would probably say Moya's version is better )